Festivals & Events
Visit Burlington for fun, family activities, and great events all year round! Participate in road races, browse farmers’ markets, and enjoy free community-wide music and cultural festivals that keep the city alive with activities for visitors and residents alike.
Golden Days of Autumn
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, Burlington transforms into a breathtaking autumn escape, rich with natural beauty and seasonal charm. Stroll along scenic trails framed by fall foliage, browse fresh finds at local farmers’ markets, and immerse yourself in the spirit of the season. Experience the enchantment of the Royal Botanical Gardens’ Great Pumpkin Trail, where glowing pumpkin lanterns light the way for a magical evening walk. Dive into creativity during Ontario Culture Days, with interactive art, music, and performances bringing Burlington’s vibrant culture to life.Â
Visit our Fall Into Burlington page to explore specially curated itineraries tailored for the season.
A Winter Wonderland
When the snow falls, Burlington transforms into a winter wonderland brimming with events. Museums offer festive activities, Santa joins the Christmas Parade, and the downtown and waterfront glow during the Festival of Lights. The cold weather doesn’t deter participants in the Santa 5K run, Robbie Burns Run, Chilly Half Marathon and the internationally recognized Around the Bay Road Race.  Our winter Taste of Burlington gets you out of hibernation by offering prix fixe dining at numerous restaurants in late January to February. With a variety of activities and picturesque landscapes, Burlington is the perfect destination to embrace the joys of winter.Â
Ready to bundle up and explore? Discover Burlington’s top 8 experiences that make the season unforgettable.Â
Blossom Into Spring
Spring is a beautiful time to experience Burlington as the city comes to life with blooming cherry blossoms, scenic waterfront views, and exciting seasonal events. Head to Spencer Smith Park where you can stroll beneath delicate cherry blossoms in full bloom from late April to early May. Explore local art at the Art Gallery of Burlington, or join in the Canada Netherlands Friendship Day celebrations. Take in fresh air and panoramic views on a hike through our many conservation areas, or unwind with a drink on a sunny patio as Burlington’s culinary scene flourishes in spring
Ready to embrace the most of the season? start with these 9 must-do spring experiences in Burlington.
In the summertime
Burlington’s summer starts with the sounds of music and ends with the mouthwatering aromas of barbecue. Early in the season, Spencer Smith Park comes alive with Canada’s largest free music festival, the Sound of Music, where lively tunes set the tone for a summer of celebration. As the season unfolds, the city buzzes with open-air markets, food trucks, and patios, while parks fill with festival spirit and community events light up the waterfront. The summer crescendo? Canada’s Largest Ribfest, filling the air with the irresistible scent of barbecue and bringing people together for one final summer hurrah!
Don’t miss a moment, check out Burlington’s full summer festival lineup here.
